Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan Update: July 24, 2020

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July 24, 2020

Updates from the Governor

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced that they have distributed small business emergency loans to 1,020 small businesses throughout Minnesota, helping them to survive the initial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Minnesota Small Business Emergency Loan Program is part of a slate of emergency financing options for small Minnesota businesses. Other state options included the Small Business Loan Guarantee program and the Small Business Relief Grant program. State programs complement larger federal government programs, including Small Business Administration assistance, and the Paycheck Protection Program.

You can see a list of businesses that received a Minnesota Small Business Emergency Loan, as well as a breakout of loans by region and lender, on DEED’s website.

Also today, Governor Walz announced the authorization of emergency assistance for five Minnesota counties that sustained extensive damage during spring flooding this year, especially to township and county roads. Hubbard, Kittson, Marshall, Norman, and Polk counties will receive state support after they experienced a combination of heavy rain and winter snowfall that caused the damage.

“One Minnesota means we come together to provide support when we see a community in need,”said Governor Walz. “We will work closely with these counties to provide disaster assistance and ensure they quickly recover from this flooding.” 

Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19

  • Wear masks when in public. 10-50% of virus carriers are asymptomatic wearing masks helps control the virus and has been shown to lower COVID-19 spread.
  • Avoid enclosed spaces with groups of people, where the virus can linger in the air for long periods of time.
  • Get tested if you have cold or flu-like symptoms – Find testing locations.
  • Stay six feet away from others.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or sleeve, or a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterwards.
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth – with unwashed hands.
  • Up-to-date guidance is available from the Department of Health.

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